NZ vs PAK | Twitter in splits as Iftikharâs cocky run-out claim of Williamson make him look silly
Usually the best-positioned fielders often provide valuable insights during run-out situations. However, an unusual incident occurred when Iftikhar Ahmed took the initiative to make a call regarding the dismissal, only to discover that the outcome was quite the opposite of what he expected.
The toss was the only aspect that favored Pakistan as the opening partnership laid a strong foundation during the first powerplay. Even after Conway was dismissed, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra made sure that Pakistan's captain ran out of options by establishing the highest partnership against Pakistan in ODI World Cups. It was when the Kiwi skipper came close to getting run out, adding a touch of drama to the proceedings.
Iftikhar Ahmed bowled to Williamson, who attempted a risky single with a reverse sweep. However, the shot wasn't perfectly executed, and the ball went straight to backward point. Ravindra, Williamson's partner, called for the run, and despite Williamson being on his knees, he managed to reach the other end. Iftikhar collected the throw and attempted to dislodge the bails, but he wasn't quick enough to get the direct hit. The decision was referred to the third umpire for a run-out check, and Iftikhar believed Williamson was short of the ground as he signaled to his teammates. It was a close call, but the delay in Iftikhar gathering the ball and removing the bails allowed Williamson to make it safely.
Iftikhar's confident but unsuccessful attempt became a subject of mockery on social media, and the Twitterati had various humorous reactions to the incident.
Need that confidence in life!
â aman chettri (@amanchettri1)Â November 4, 2023
This is so funny to watch!
Saw many antiques in life but pakistani players are next level.
â ManishđŽđł (@manibhaii16) November 4, 2023
The confidence with which ifthikar said its out was hilarious lol#pavvsnz #nzvspak pic.twitter.com/IXei2LULpn
LOL!!! Hahaha!
Dhoni would have completed 5 run-outs in the time it took Ifthikar to dislodge the stumps.
â Tushar Gupta (@Tushar15_)Â November 4, 2023
Everyone thought it was out! The way Ifhthi chacha was confident about!
Ifthikar was so confident that it was out đ
â Sunny Kira đŽđł (@sunnykira3) November 4, 2023
Gantaki ganta kottamantav entrraa!! xD xD
Ball collect cheskoni ganta ki kotti confident gaa out anta Ifthikarđ¤Ą
â Kishore Maharshi (@Kishore_2605)Â November 4, 2023
Agreed!
Poor fielding by Pakistan đ #nzvspak #CWC23
â I.adxnan_18 (@DkAdnanYt1)Â November 4, 2023
They need some motivation!
#askstar why pakistan body language is like they already give up. No efforts in fielding. No dives
â N D (@belikegiba)Â November 4, 2023
:|
Le liya na pakistan ne Fielding first kya ukhad liya Pakistan ne đki team h pakistan
â Amit Haj (@HajAmit55814)Â November 4, 2023
Never know about this!
Did Pakistan miss a trick by fielding an all-pace attack in Bangalore? đ§Â #NZvPAK #Cricket #CWC23 #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/x9m0dTWDRX
â Vishnu Tiwari (@VishnuTiwa29296)Â November 4, 2023
That's true!
Management of Pakistan Cricket Team should be sacked immediately... Who told them to choose Fielding in these conditions...???
â Nizar Ali (@JuttLoveKhan)Â November 4, 2023
You are providing chance to opponents to creat pressure on us.Â
Pakistan Wapis aa raha ha. #CWC23 #PAKvsNZ